Today we’d like to introduce you to LaDora Johnson.
Hi LaDora, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I started my nonprofit in honor of my parents after my dad passed away in 2009. Initially, it was centered around community service on a broad spectrum, but later, it evolved into specifically advocating for missing persons and guardians and/or conservators of adults with mental illness. The shift was directly related to my adult son being diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, who was missing multiple times.
When my son disappeared after his initial diagnosis in 2016, I was lost. I stumbled upon the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). I was assigned a volunteer mentor whose son was also missing. Once my son was recovered, my mentor asked me if I would like to partner with NCMEC as a volunteer because she felt I encouraged her more than she did me. At that moment, I knew my calling was tailored for missing persons and mental health. In 2018, I began my journey as a mentor with NCMEC, and I pivoted my nonprofit perspective to provide guidance and resources to others as they navigate through life-altering challenges with their loved ones.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not been a smooth road because starting a non-profit isn’t profitable in the respect that there aren’t any goods or services that are sold, therefore, every dollar is either from my personal finances or fundraisers. It’s challenging to work full time while in graduate school and meet the needs of those who reach out for help. Sustainability with volunteers, establishing partnerships, and securing funding for projects are major hurdles when you’re a small fish in a big pond.
We’ve been impressed with Life Legacy Foundation, Inc, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Life Legacy Foundation is an established 501(c)3 nonprofit that advocates for missing persons and provides guidance and resources to those who have or may be seeking legal guardianship and/or conservatorship for an adult(s) with mental illness. Life Legacy is currently in the process of trying to amend or change some of the adult mental health laws, and are in search of sustainable, collaborative partnerships that have the same vested interests. Our goal within the next year or so is to establish a transitional/long-term living facility and an unhoused community center within the Kansas City metro area.
What makes you happy?
My happiness is helping others fulfill their unmet needs. I’ve had my share of hardships, and by the grace of God he continues to bring me through them all. As my parents used to say, “We are blessed to be a blessing.”
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lifelegacyfoundationinc.org
- Instagram: lifelegacyfoundationinc
- Facebook: Life Legacy Foundation, Inc
- Other: https://facebook.com/AMMIA
